Firmino transfer revelation as Klopp promises more new Liverpool deals

Jurgen Klopp insists Roberto Firmino had nowhere else to go after talking up the Brazilian’s merits and promising he will not be the last player to commit his long-term future to Liverpool.

The Brazil international agreed an improved five-year contract on Sunday and it is expected the likes of Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah will follow suit as Klopp looks to tie down his major stars.

Firmino has been overshadowed by Salah’s incredible goal-scoring exploits this season, but is arguably the team’s most important player and his value to the club is reflected in his new contract, estimated to be worth £160,000-a-week.

“This is one very important step, absolutely,” Klopp said.

“But even Roberto cannot play alone. We need to carry on in this way.

“In the moment every player knows about our plans. He’s the first (to commit), but for sure he won’t be the last.”

Firmino has scored 27 goals this season, but it is his all-round game which has helped the team flourish.

It has taken the Premier League a while to catch up to the crucial job he does, but Klopp said it was never in doubt within the walls of their Melwood training ground.

“This constant discussion about whether he’s under-valued or whatever in public, this never happened for one second either in the club or in the team,” added the Reds boss ahead of their Champions League semi-final second leg against Roma.

“He knows and appreciates absolutely this club. The other boys really respect him for all the work he’s doing.

“He feels completely comfortable and is planning for the long term here.

“That’s becoming rare because if you are not Barcelona or not Real Madrid then there’s usually another club somewhere you can go to.